Bill Maher grilled California Governor Gavin Newsom over the state’s extensive regulations during an interview on his show “Real Time” on Friday. Maher shared his personal frustrations with bureaucratic hurdles, citing his experience of having to pay for two inspections for roof upgrades. “It’s my roof!” Maher exclaimed.
“If it falls on my head, that’s my problem. Why do I need two inspections, which I have to pay for?”
Newsom acknowledged that reducing bureaucratic obstacles is a priority for his administration. He mentioned a recent example where the state repaired Interstate-10 within eight days after fires, a process that would normally take much longer.
The discussion then turned to broader issues of regulation. Maher criticized the long delays in California’s building and housing developments. He also brought up the controversial high-speed rail project, arguing that its current route from Merced to Bakersfield was impractical.
Regulations frustrate Bill Maher
“It’s why you’d be a good candidate. You play this game well,” Maher remarked, suggesting Newsom should consider running for president in 2028.
Maher listed the numerous entities involved in California’s regulatory process, from regulators and inspectors to project managers and consultants. “Can’t you take a chainsaw? Can’t we eliminate these people?” Maher asked.
Newsom assured Maher that his administration is aggressively working towards reducing these layers of bureaucracy. However, he also noted that many of the current rules were established by Republicans and accused the GOP of politicizing the issue of regulation. The interview highlighted the ongoing debate over governmental oversight and the balance between necessary regulation and bureaucratic inefficiency in California.
Maher’s pointed questions and Newsom’s responses shed light on the challenges faced by the state in streamlining its regulatory processes.
